Letter: Right’s tactics predictable

The gay marriage issue is suddenly back on the front page. The Senate has voted down an amendment to the constitution to effectively ban same-sex marriage.

I think it interesting that the timing of these headlines coincides with the coming congressional elections of 2006.

I am in a state of constant bewilderment that we, as a nation, do not have more important things to worry about. Our nation’s schools are a joke, we still rely on foreign energy to survive, we are in what could arguably be called a failed war effort in Iraq and it looks like Iran will soon have nuclear capabilities, yet the most pressing issue the Republican Party can bring up is gay marriage? Wow.

I can’t blame the right for bringing this, along with immigration, to the forefront at this time. I guess if I was of the same persuasion I would do the same. It is just as imperative now as it was in 2004 to the conservative movement to bring out the vote. The religious right has lived off the gay-rights issue for the last few elections and for the right wing to bring the issue up at election time only helps mobilize the troops and those who would not normally vote in off-year elections.

I really don’t want to hear any argument based on religious beliefs. It’s meaningless on so many levels, not the least of which is the First Amendment to the Constitution.

Kevin Mittleman/Naples